Kara Spears, M.A.
Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern
Hi there! I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults to help them navigate challenges, better understand their emotions, and feel more confident in themselves. I have experience across hospital-based, community, and academic settings, where I’ve provided counseling, assessment, and crisis intervention for children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have advanced training in play therapy, motivational interviewing, and certification in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
My approach is warm, flexible, and tailored to your family. I draw from evidence-based practices and adapt them to fit each person’s unique needs, using play-based techniques with younger clients and helping teens and adults build insight and practical, everyday coping skills. I’m also committed to providing culturally responsive care and fostering resilience and emotional wellness in the individuals and families I work with.
I strive to create a space where you can come as you are, one where you feel understood, safe, and supported.
Kara is currently accepting new clients.
Kara’s Clinical Style
Authentic, Collaborative, Trauma-Informed, Affirming, Values-Driven
About Kara
(She/her)
best part about my job:
The most meaningful part of my work at Tampa Pediatric Psychology is building genuine, trusting relationships with clients and walking alongside them as they grow. I value helping clients build skills, strengthen relationships, and navigate challenges with greater confidence. Watching this growth unfold over time is incredibly rewarding!
Favorite books/podcasts:
The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris
Unmasking Autism by Devon Price
The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel Siegal & Tina Payne Bryson
The Psychology of your 20’s on Spotify
Help Me Be Me on Spotify
how I spend my free time:
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones and pets, listening to podcasts, and soaking up the sun. I also am a huge Disney fan and try to visit the parks whenever possible!
FAvorite quote:
“You control your destiny; you don’t need magic to do it.”
-Merida, Brave
Education & Clinical Experience:
Pediatric Critical Care Units Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern, Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Practicum Student, UCF Community Counseling and Research Center
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP-accredited), University of Central Florida 2026
Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology, University of Central Florida 2022
Physician Referral on Google
“As a mental healthcare professional, I love having Dr. Edwards and her team as a resource and love that I hear nothing but positive feedback from my patients. Dr. Edwards is highly competent, intelligent, and relatable and has built a team based on these values.”
Review on Google
“Dr. Edwards has an incredible way of connecting with children and parents alike. She combines warmth and understanding with deep clinical knowledge, and has built a team with the same characteristics and values.”
Clinical Issues/Specialties:
adhd
anxiety
DEPRESSION
behavior challenges
self esteem
LIFE transitionS
perfectionism
college counseling
OCD
executive functioning
EATING DISORDERS
child & teen therapy
SLEEP PROBLEMS
oppositional Defiance
panic attacks
impulse-control
test anxiety
school problems
Therapy Modalities/Services Offered:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
play therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Parent Management Training
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
EXPOSURE AND RESPONSE PREVENTION (ERP)
PARENT TRAINING FOR ANXIETY & OCD (SPACE)
FAMILY THERAPY
School Consultation
Locations:
virtual THERAPY
in-person at tampa office
Populations Served:
Children & teens (3 - 17 years)
Adults (18+)
Families & Parents